ACT/SAT Testing

ACT or SAT: Which Test is Best?

Most colleges accept either the ACT or SAT and use a simple conversion label to compare scores. Both test companies consistently state the best preparation for the ACT or SAT is the years of solid academic classroom work preceding the test. The majority of Columbus High Students take the ACT and generally seem to score better on the test since it covers English, Math, Science Reasoning and Reading Comprehension while the SAT covers Math, English and Writing. ACT has added a Writing sub-test that students can opt to take. At the present time, no colleges in Nebraska are using the Writing score.

Students who need to take the SAT are those who:

Are applying for ROTC schoarships or to one of the service academies;
Are considering schools on the east or west coast or those that are highly selective.

The primary purpose of ACT and SAT tests is for admissions and advising. The scores are often one of the most important criteria for scholarship qualification and selection. Many scholarships require a minimum test score before a student may apply.

Registration Information

ACT and SAT packets may be picked up at the Guidance Office. They can be filled out on the paper form or online. The paper form and check are sent directly to the testing company in the envelope provided. If registering online, payment is made with a credit card.

1. Columbus High School Code is 280525. You must use this code in order for your scores to be sent to CHS to be placed on your transcript.

2. The Test Center number for CCC-C is 024750. The test is given on Saturday mornings from 8:00 A.M. - 12:00 Noon.

3. If you wish to compete for a Regents Scholarship from UNL, UNO, or UNK, you must list their code numbers for them to receive an official copy of you ACT test scores.
a. UNL # 2482
b. UNO # 2464
c. UNK # 2468

You can send scores to four colleges for your $28.00 test fee.

4. Use #2 lead pencil only.

5. The registration deadline is the date by which the envelope must be postmarked.

6. Check your Saturday test dates to make certain you do not have an athletic event, music contest, etc.

7. Follow instructions A thru Z to fill out the registration form. It will take at least an hour.

8. When complete, enclose your check for $29.00 and registration blank and mail the materials.

9. Estimate your grades on your high school courses. If you have a real concern, come to Guidance and look at your transcript.

10. Check your Admission Form for errors. Save the form for admission to the test center along with proper identification. This is very important! (Proper photo I.D. means driver's license or school I.D.)

11. If you are using the late registration, the fee is $18.00 plus the normal $29.00 for a total of $47.00.

12. If you are considering participation in college athletics at the NCAA Division I or II levels, be sure to list 9999 as one of your college code choices.

13. The writing portion of the ACT is not needed for colleges in Nebraska

Tips for taking the PSAT, SAT, OR ACT

1. One of the most important parts of taking the exam is getting to the exam site ahead of time. Arriving at the last minute can cost you valuable moments of psychological orientation.

2. Work rapidly. Skip difficult items and return to them later. Do not get hung up on one question and spend twice or three times as long on it as on others. Then, if you have time, return to the unanswered questions.

3. Use spare time at the end for rereading and checking over items.

4. There is only one right answer. If you identify it, don't waste time working through the other possibilities. Go on to the next question.

5. In reading comprehension packages, underline important information as you read through the test. There is no penalty for marking on worksheets.

6. Pay particular attention to words such as but, not, however, and, therefore. They are often key words that signal major thoughts.

7. Use mathematics shortcuts such as cancellation of fractions, estimation, and removal of decimal points whenever possible.

8. Do sample tests and request English or Math teachers to explain or review basic concepts with you.

9. Bring a watch to the test. It is important to be aware of the time allotted to each section. When practicing the tests, time yourself with the watch.

10. Be aware, at all times, of the number of the item in your test booklet and the corresponding number of the item on the answer sheet. Misaligned responses can cost you dearly.

SUMMARY OF GENERAL TEST-TAKING STRATEGIES

Do the pre-test.
PACE yourself.
Read the directions for each test carefully.
Read each question carefully.
Answer easy questions first.
Use logic in more difficult questions.
Review your work.
ANSWER EVERY QUESTION. (Refers to the ACT Exam)
Be precise in marking your answer sheet.